Homeowners who are looking to undertake house improvements may find themselves facing higher costs when it comes to hiring skips. Prices for skip hire have increased by 20% to 33% over the past five years, with skip hire firms passing on their own rising costs to consumers. Prices can vary depending on the size of the skip required and the location, with higher costs typically found in the southern part of the country.
For example, an eight-yard skip that cost £200 in 2019 has now risen by 20% to £240 in Hertfordshire, according to Andy Catigan, director of waste management firm Waste King. Similarly, a four-yard skip that cost £180 five years ago would now cost £228 to £240, representing an increase of up to 33%, according to James Thurlow-Craig, managing director of Reliable Skip.
Several factors have contributed to the rising costs of skip hire. One major factor is the increase in fuel costs, combined with extra regulations and the impact of Brexit. The use of red diesel, which is taxed at a lower rate than standard diesel, has been restricted for heavy machinery such as skip-carrying lorries since April 2022. This has resulted in a significant increase in fuel costs for skip hire firms. Additionally, there has been a shortage of drivers in the industry, as many European skip operators returned home after Brexit, leading to increased wages for those who remained.
Another factor driving up skip hire costs is the introduction of new regulations, such as the Persistent Organic Pollutants Regulation (POPS). These regulations, implemented in December 2022, restrict the disposal of certain items, such as furniture containing harmful chemicals, in landfill. These items must be handled separately and can contaminate an entire skip load if mixed with other waste. The introduction of POPS, along with other regulations, has resulted in additional handling costs for skip hire firms, which are then passed on to consumers.
In light of these rising costs, homeowners looking for alternatives to skip hire have several options. Smaller items can be taken to a local authority tip, while professional clearance companies can handle larger items and dispose of them responsibly. One such company, Just Clear, not only disposes of unwanted items but also attempts to sell them and gives the proceeds back to the customer.
Overall, the skip hire industry faces competitive pressures, and many firms strive to keep prices as low as possible. However, the combination of factors such as fuel costs, regulations, and the shortage of drivers has led to significant price increases in recent years. Homeowners may consider exploring alternative options to skip hire to potentially save costs and benefit the environment.
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